“Disruptive, unsettling, sad. All of those are feelings that came to mind,” Donker said about the community reaction. “There will be a time of uncertainty for sure. Friends and neighbors will move away, new people will come, our balance will be tipped. Life will get uncomfortable.”

We appreciate the honesty. It is an uncertain time for citizens and everyone from those who run our services to everyday citizens need to be aware.

Donker called for everyone to approach the challenges head-on with teamwork.

Citizens need to let their leaders know what is important to them when services are concerned. Changes in the city’s dynamics could have an impact on government operations in the future — the city already faces budget challenges every year.

“Communication is really two-way. Good government is transparent,” Donker said. “Good citizens need to access the information out there and engage. We believe we can be more.”

It is good to see city leaders facing this uncertainty head on. Now, as citizens, we should do the same.